The United States Army (USA) Iceland Defense Force (IDF) is a unique military unit that operates under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and provides defense for Iceland, though it is not part of the Icelandic armed forces. Established in 1951, the IDF’s primary role is to protect Iceland from external threats, particularly during peacetime. It operates under the U.S. Department of Defense and is stationed at Camp Butler near Reykjavik. The IDF comprises around 600 personnel, mainly comprising soldiers, pilots, and other support staff, who are responsible for operating a range of equipment including aircraft, boats, and ground-based weapon systems. The IDF’s presence in Iceland contributes to regional stability and supports the broader NATO mission to protect member states from potential threats.